KUCHING: Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, said AirBorneo will play an essential role in Sarawak’s economic and infrastructural development.
Speaking at the Borneo International Conference and Exhibition (BICE) 2025 at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday, he stated that the airline is a crucial component of the state’s long-term vision to enhance connectivity, boost tourism, and strengthen regional integration.
Dr Sim said AirBorneo will significantly improve travel links, particularly between Sarawak and Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital.
He shared Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s vision, saying AirBorneo is expected to launch by the end of this year or early next year.
He stressed that it would provide a direct link between Nusantara and Sarawak, making travel easier without the need to transit through Jakarta.
“Nusantara to Sarawak is much closer than going through Jakarta,” he said.
“Air Borneo will not only improve connectivity but also be affordable.”
He compared AirBorneo to Emirates, which helped transform Dubai into a major global hub.
“Forty years ago, few knew about Dubai, but now it is a key centre for trade and tourism. Why? Because of Emirates,” he explained.
“Air Borneo will work together with Sarawak’s new international airport to achieve a similar goal.”
Dr Sim also highlighted the importance of unity, comparing it to Malaysian embassies and trade offices abroad displaying both the national and Asean flags as a symbol of strength through collaboration.
“When you travel overseas, you see large international consulates, embassies, and trade offices representing Malaysia. Alongside the national flag, the Asean flag is always present,” he noted.
“This symbolises that we stand together, and the same principle should apply to Borneo.”
He also said that the Premier is considering the possibility of organising the Borneo Games following last year’s Sukma.
“We want to bring people together,” he said.
“Sarawak should be a vibrant place where people feel welcome and work together as friends,”he added.